Finding motivation essential

     By Kim Springer
     View columnist
      There are hundreds of options in the market when it comes to home fitness equipment and diet programs.
      Most products make claims that are unrealistic and can lead to a self-defeating attitude. Consumers are now looking past the hype of products and trying to determine what motivates them and leads to results.
      First off, the word "results" is often overused in advertisements. Any product, diet or person that guarantees results should be looked at skeptically. Results can only be guaranteed if you live in a perfect environment.
      For example, an exercise program might claim that if you follow the regimen then you will lose so many pounds. Well, this does not take into account your eating or sleep habits or other external influences. Results can only be achieved when you look within and see if you are being honest with yourself.
      According to a 1997 report issued by the Fitness Products Council, consumers spent $4.8 billion for home exercise equipment in 1996. This is three times the amount spent in 1990.
      Meanwhile, obesity rates now range as high as every three-out-of-four Americans.
      The most cited reasons by survey participants for their not using equipment: They didn't see results. The blame cannot be placed fully on the exercise equipment; exercise compliance is the reason most people never achieve the results they desire.
      Infomercials have become the common selling place for trendy exercise gadgets and weight-loss programs. Using models in advertisements is common and often deceives the viewer into believing this is how they will look down the road.
      Weight loss is the major goal of most people who purchase exercise equipment. After the equipment arrives, what motivates the person to actually use it?
      Most people decide to exercise when they want to improve their health. Another motivation comes when they can visualize actually reaching their goals.
      A support environment is important for someone starting an exercise program and for continued motivation. Spouses, partners or even a work environment make the difference for someone to have a "sense of efficacy;" the ability to exercise with skill says San Diego State University psychologist James Sallis.
      If the person is having fun with their new level and mode of activity they will also move toward success.
      Programs that preach the importance of long-term health improvements are more likely to be adhered. Since those looking for a quick fix or instant results are often disappointed, these types of programs or machines are quickly abandoned.
      Wayne Westcott is the fitness research director at the YMCA and a leading authority on strength training. He developed a program at the YMCA in Massachusetts titled "Workout for Weight Loss."
      Westcott's program combines strength training with aerobic exercise during three weekly one-hour sessions. He admits the program is simple and sticks to the basic principles of fitness.
      The reason this program is successful is that it keeps people focused on the big picture: good health. Unrealistic goal setting and expectations are the reasons most people stop exercising.
      Re-evaluate why you might have fallen off the fitness bandwagon. If you quit because you didn't get fast results, find a new mode of exercise and try again. Viewing exercise as a life-long commitment to your health will keep you going.
     
     Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are certified by ACE, NASM and ACSM as personal trainers. They can be reached at 233-9442, by fax at 233-9446 or by e-mail at springtrain@netscape.net.